Looking for a healthier way to start Thanksgiving than with a plate of appetizers?

Would you like to burn some calories beforehand so you can gobble ’til you wobble?

Or maybe you just want to support a local nonprofit’s mission to inspire young girls to be "strong, smart and bold."

No matter the reason, Girls Inc. of Jackson County’s annual Turkey Trot is where you should be Thanksgiving morning.

Online registration for the 8K run or 5K walk is still available through midnight today at signmeup.com/131113 or participants can sign up at Girls Inc. the day of the event beginning at 6:30 a.m. The race starts at 7:30 a.m.

Awards and door prizes will be handed out after the race.

The cost to enter is $35. Proceeds from the event are used to fund after-school programming and general operation expenses at Girls Inc.

The Turkey Trot is one of two major fundraisers for the club.

Last year’s race netted $13,489, said Debbie Felix, Girls Inc. office manager. That amount includes entry fees and sponsorships.

Racers also are asked to bring canned goods or nonperishable food items as a donation for the Community Provisions of Jackson County Inc. food pantry or a cash donation for Human Services Inc.

Participants brought in a record amount of food last year, Felix said.

This year marks the Turkey Trot’s 10th anniversary.

Felix said 341 people have signed up for the race so far, but she is expecting more.

"Last year, we had 425, so I think we’ll have 400 or more this year," she said.

Originally, the forecast was calling for rain or ice, but Felix said that has changed, and temperatures should be in the 40s with no precipitation.

"The weather makes a big difference," she said.

Angie Mellencamp of Seymour said she signed up for the race last year and will be there again come Thursday morning.

"It’s a great way to get the day started," she said. "Plus, since it is a holiday focused on eating, a workout never hurts."

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Girls Inc. of Jackson County’s 10th annual Turkey Trot

What: 8K run or 5K walk fundraiser

When: 7:30 to 11 a.m. Thursday

Where: Girls Inc. of Jackson County, 956 N. O’Brien St, Seymour

Register: signmeup.com/131113

Cost: $35 registration fee and participants are asked to make a donation of canned goods or nonperishable food items

Information: 812-522-2798

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